Alfonso Soriano takes batting practice

HOUSTON — Alfonso Soriano took batting practice for the first time in two weeks Friday and said he still is targeting a Thursday return against the Marlins at Wrigley Field.

"I just want to make my mind feel comfortable," Soriano said.

The tentative plan is for Soriano to go to the Cubs instructional facility in Mesa, Ariz., on Monday and get five or six at-bats in a Rookie League game before going on a two-game rehab stint Tuesday and Wednesday with Triple-A Iowa in Tucson. The Cubs will be in nearby Phoenix on Monday through Wednesday to play the Diamondbacks.

Meanwhile, Scott Eyre remains in limbo while the Cubs try to juggle their crowded bullpen.

"Scottie is champing at the bit to come back," general manager Jim Hendry said.

While manager Lou Piniella said Eyre possibly could return on a rehab stint, the veteran does not have to go out.

"He pitched twice with our A-ball team," Piniella said. "I don't know exactly what the timetable will be, but he can go out [Saturday] and pitch, if that's what's on the agenda."

Eyre could continue to throw bullpen sessions for pitching coach Larry Rothschild until the Cubs think he's ready. Considering Houston and Arizona are predominantly right-handed-hitting teams, Eyre may not return until later next week.

Hoffpauir up, Lieber down

Outfielder Micah Hoffpauir was called up Friday from Triple-A Iowa, as expected, while Jon Lieber was placed on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to July 11, with a right foot strain.

Lieber, who missed the last three months of the '07 season after surgery to repair a ruptured tendon in the foot, said it has been irritating him for the last week or so.

"I talked to [Hendry] last Sunday about it, and he said 'We'll see how it goes over the break and we'll possibly DL you,'" Lieber said. "I was fine with that. Just give it some days."

Lieber said he's resigned that the foot problem will flare up again.

Hill watch

Rich Hill began the long climb back at Class A Daytona on Friday, allowing two earned runs on six hits and three walks over 4 1/3 innings. Though Hill remains on Iowa's roster, the Cubs plan to bring him back slowly through the system on what's being termed a rehab stint.